Top 5 Fireworks Displays in Scotland

The historic buildings and beautiful vistas of Scotland provide stunning backdrops for truly memorable fireworks displays. There are many displays held across Scotland every year, though most aren’t usually confirmed until autumn. The displays included here have all been held regularly for the last few years, though many dates and times are yet to be fully confirmed for 2023. Always check with the organisers in advance.

Bridge of Allan Fireworks and Bonfire Spectacular (Stirling)

Held in Strathalan Games Park in Stirling, this family-friendly display has a lovely community feel. It’s organised by the Stirling and Bridge of Allan Round Table, and its location makes it accessible for a large part of the country. Held on or around the 5th November, the gates usually open at around 6pm, with the fireworks commencing around 7:30pm. Tickets range from £2 to £6, with all proceeds returned to the local community.

The Knockhill Live-Action and Fireworks Spectacular (Fife)

This one’s a truly unique experience. Held at Knockhill racing circuit in Fife, the event combines breathtaking fireworks (put on by renowned fireworks company, Edinburgh Fireworks) with an afternoon and evening of motorsport entertainment. With gates confirmed to open at 3pm on the 5th November, families can enjoy the demonstrations and entertainment before settling down to watch the fireworks display at 5:45pm - perfect for getting home at a reasonable hour! Tickets cost between £8 and £16, with children free.

Glasgow Green Fireworks (Glasgow)

Anticipation is high for this popular display. The event was cancelled in 2021 because of the COP25 summit. As well as fireworks, expect to find an awe-inspiring bonfire and fairground fun. There’s also a range of food and drink on offer. The event is free, running on or around the 5th November from roughly 5pm - 9:30pm with the firework display (set to music in front of the city’s iconic People's Palace and Winter Gardens) at 7:30pm.

Civic Bonfire & Fireworks Display (Inverness)

One of the biggest fireworks displays in the UK, this free to attend event is not to be missed. It’s held on a date close to bonfire night at Bught Park, with a funfair and bonfire kicking off proceedings at around 6pm. Attendees can find food and drink from a range of catering vans before enjoying a 10 - 20 minute fireworks display over the skies of Inverness at around 7pm. Even if you can’t make it to Bught Park, you can still enjoy the display from almost any part of the city.

Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks (Edinburgh)

Held every year on 31st December, this world-famous event boasts the most spectacular fireworks display in the country. Mini “countdown fireworks” are set off each hour from 9pm to 11pm, before the main display (set to music specially curated by world-famous artists) hits the skies at midnight. Thousands of people descend on the capital every year, taking up vantage points across the entire city. The official events, such as the Concert in the Gardens and the Hogmanay Street Party on Princes Street are ticketed, but you can enjoy the sights from almost anywhere. The show is also streamed live on the internet, for those unable to attend in person.

Photo by Thomas M. Evans on Unsplash